Lee County Considers Cross Training Employees

Keokuk, IA – The Lee County Board of Supervisors may look at cross training county employees to try to save money. The board voted against hiring a real estate clerk for the Recorder's office to replace an employee who is leaving. Supervisor Joe Kowzan says with the county facing a difficult budget process next year, the board must save money wherever it can. The board plans to discuss the cross training opportunities during next week's scheduled department head meeting. By not filling the position, the Recorder's office will have a total of four full time and two part time workers between the Keokuk and Fort Madison offices. The County has had a hiring freeze in place for nearly five months, though department heads could make a special hiring request directly to the board. Kowzan says this decision does not change that, as the board will consider all options for each hiring request. During the discussion, the board reiterated the fact that layoffs are likely next year.